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DNA Replication found semi-conservative
DNA replication is semi-conservative, as shown by Meselson and Stahl using equilibrium density gradient centrifugation. -
mRNA
Messenger RNA is the intermediate between DNA and protein. -
Genetic Code Cracked
The genetic code is cracked by a number of researchers (including Nirenberg, Matthaei, Leder, and Khorana) using RNA homopolymer and heteropolymer experiments as well as tRNA labeling experiments. -
Restriction Enzyme Purified
The first restriction enzyme is purified by Hamilton Smith. -
Recombinant DNA Contructed
Recombinant DNA is first constructed by Cohen and Boyer. -
DNA Sequencing Technology Developed
DNA sequencing technology is developed by Fred Sanger. -
PCR Developed
PCR is developed by Kary Mullis. -
Genome Projects Begin
Genome projects are begun. The yeast genome is complete in 1996, and the C. elegans genome is done in 1998. -
DNA Microarrays Invented
DNA microarrays are invented by Pat Brown and colleagues. -
Small Events
DNA fingerprinting, gene therapy, and genetically modified foods come onto the scene. -
Genome Projects Accelerate
Automated sequencing technology allows genome projects to accelerate. -
First Clone
The first cloning of a mammal (Dolly the sheep) is performed by Ian Wilmut and colleagues, from the Roslin institute in Scotland. -
Genomes Complete
The Drosophila genome is completed. The Arabidopsis genome is completed. The human genome is reported to be completed. -
Sequence of Human Genome Released
The sequence of the human genome is released, and the "post-genomic era" officially begins. -
Controversy
Controversies continue over human and animal cloning, research on stem cells, and genetic modification of crops.